Michelin Alters Distribution Policies Amid Antitrust Woes

Law360, New York (September 15, 2010, 4:59 PM EDT) -- France's competition watchdog accepted commitments from Michelin on Wednesday to change its dealer distribution policies in order to appease worries that the tire manufacturer has taken unfair advantage of its market dominance.

The French Competition Authority's decision resolves a complaint from auto service chain Vulco and industry interest group Pneuman, which had accused the company of abusing its position as one of the leading suppliers of replacement tires by refusing to provide its products to dealers that were not part of its network.